It looks like it’s going to be a hot one today. And tomorrow. In the Portland area, temperatures are expected to hit 108 degrees by tomorrow. Our coworkers in Oroville are expecting the same temperatures. We’re feeling envy for the relative coolness that our friends in Meridian ID are experiencing at 102 degrees today. The site staff at our southernmost property in Perris is working today in temperatures reaching 105 degrees.
So, it’s hot. Really hot.
And on that note, let’s all take a moment to focus on heat related illness, it’s symptoms, and how to avoid it, by reading this little reminder that we like to send out every year around this time.
Heat illness is caused by excessive heat, which brings on dehydration. Heat illness can range from mild heat exhaustion to heat stroke. Heat stroke is a dysfunction of the central nervous system that makes the body stop sweating and organs stop working.
Before a heat stroke, patients will experience heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, weakness, heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, headache, malaise, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, fainting, and a rash called prickly heat.
When these symptoms occur, drink plenty of water, and rest in a cool place. Seek medical attention if the symptoms do not go away.
Symptoms of heat stroke are dry skin, dizziness, headache, confusion, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness, and a high body temp above 104°F. This is a medical emergency. Lower the body temperature immediately by moving the victim to shade, removing their clothing, bathing them in cool or cold water, and fan to increase cooling.
Of course, an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of medicine, and in this case prevention can come in the form of a bottle of water. Please have water available, and be insistent that your maintenance staff is drinking plenty of it. Avoiding alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and soda pop during these peak times of heat will also decrease the chances of dehydration and heat illness. Wear loose clothing and avoid direct sunlight or even being outdoors when possible. Pay particular attention to urine color, as dark urine is an indicator that the body is not getting enough fluids.
Remember, hydration is the name of the game for the next several days, and through the rest of the summer.